Fake police officers are scamming people out of thousands of pounds in cash, Leicestershire Police have warned.

The fraudsters approach their victims, usually over the phone, claiming to be from the police or their bank’s fraud team, to ask for help with an undercover operation, the force said in a Facebook post.

The caller says they are investigating fraud at the bank, where bank staff are involved with issuing fake bank notes, and asks the victim to visit a branch and withdraw thousands of pounds from their account.

They are told not to tell the cashier why they are withdrawing such a large sum, as they may be in on the scam.

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The fake investigators then take the notes, saying they will test whether they are real or not, promising the money will be returned to their bank account, which never happens.

Paul Wenlock, from Leicestershire Police’s economic crime unit, said: “This is a scam which seems to be increasing, not just in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland but elsewhere across the country.

“The victim may feel that they are doing a public service by helping the police and for some it may seem exciting to part of an undercover operation, but this is not the case and it’s simply a thief’s way of enticing a victim so they can steal their money.

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“It’s important that those who are elderly or vulnerable who often fall prey to such type of scams are aware, so we would encourage the public to share this message and help us prevent further victims of this crime.”

My Wenlock said: “Police or banks will never ask anyone to take part in a fraud operation or withdraw or transfer money.

“Please be wary of any contact made from someone claiming to be from the police asking you to transfer money.

“If you are suspicious or concerned, please hang up the phone and contact either police, Action Fraud or your local bank.”

Anyone who has been contacted in similar circumstances or has any information about the offences is should contact 101 or private message the Leicestershire Police Facebook Page.